Sandra Demontigny Advocates for the Right to Choose Death Amid Early-Onset Alzheimer’s

Sandra Demontigny, diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s, has championed the right for individuals to plan their own deaths in Quebec, an initiative that gained legal recognition last fall.

In a poignant reflection on mortality, Sandra Demontigny, at just 45, confronts the harrowing reality of early-onset Alzheimer’s—a condition that has plagued her family for generations. As she grapples with her own diagnosis, she has become a powerful advocate for the right to choose medically assisted death, even while still mentally competent.

Quebec has emerged as a beacon for progressive end-of-life options, legally permitting individuals with incurable illnesses to select the timing of their deaths in advance. Thanks to relentless campaigning, Demontigny played a key role in this critical development.

Demontigny’s personal journey is marked by both profound courage and vulnerability. Instead of succumbing to despair, she has vocalized the need for dignity in the face of debilitating illness. “How does one decide when to end one’s life?” she pondered during a reflective moment, candle in hand, illustrating the emotional weight of her fight.

Her advocacy has brought forth painful memories, including her father’s decline—once a vibrant figure, he transformed into someone unrecognizable and hostile due to Alzheimer’s. Demontigny’s mission is clear: to spare her children and herself from a similar fate. She seeks to navigate her illness on her own terms, emphasizing a compassionate approach to dying.

Quebec's progressive laws allowing for preemptive decisions regarding assisted death represent a significant shift, positioning the province among a small group globally that supports such autonomy. Sandra Demontigny's story not only resonates with those facing similar challenges but also serves as a rallying cry for many advocating for choice, dignity, and empowerment at the end of life.